Buying in South of France: what overseas buyers should know
The South of France covers the Mediterranean coast and its hinterland, from the vineyards of the west across Provence to the French Riviera in the east. Buyers are drawn by the warm climate, the light, and the mix of coast, countryside and long-established towns. Purchasers range from families buying a holiday home to those relocating or investing in a residence for the long term. Property runs from apartments and townhomes to village homes, restored farmhouses known as mas, and larger estates with land and vineyards.
What buyers are looking for in South of France
Demand tends to concentrate along the coast and around the better-known inland towns, where local knowledge counts for a great deal. Coastal areas favour apartments, villas and homes with sea views, while inland you will find stone village homes, farmhouses and country estates. Prime addresses hold their appeal year after year, and a well-placed property in a sought-after commune remains in steady demand. A local partner agent can help you read the differences between one area and the next.
Buying as an overseas buyer
UK buyers can own freely in France. Since Brexit, visits are limited to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen area without a visa, with a long-stay visa available for longer periods. A notaire oversees the purchase, with a deposit and a short cooling-off period, and the fees paid through the notaire are higher on older resale homes than on new-build. Ongoing costs include the annual taxe fonciere, plus taxe d'habitation on second homes, where some areas add a surcharge. French banks lend to non-residents, usually with a larger deposit than a resident would need. This is a general summary, so take local advice on your own position. Start your search to see property for sale in South of France, or contact our team to be connected with a local partner agent.
Where to find property for sale in South of France
The region divides into distinct areas, each with its own character. Provence reaches inland from the coast, with market towns, hilltop villages and farmhouses set among vineyards and olive groves. To the east, the Cote d'Azur runs along the Riviera coast, where apartments and villas command sea views and coastal access. Further west, around the Gard and Languedoc, historic towns and stone homes offer a quieter alternative with good value.
Property types follow the setting. On the coast, expect apartments, modern villas and homes designed around outdoor living. Inland, restored mas farmhouses, village homes and estates with land are more common. Your choice will come down to how you want to spend your time, from a lock-up-and-leave apartment near the sea to a rural property with room to grow. Explore our collections to shortlist by the way you want to live.